Deep Teeth Cleaning in Gonzales
Scaling & Root Planing
Regular teeth cleaning is an important element of your overall oral hygiene—but not all dental cleanings are the same. In addition to standard teeth cleanings, most dental offices offer deep dental cleaning services. While regular teeth cleaning treatments address plaque and tartar buildup above the gum line, deep dental cleanings focus on removing bacteria below the gums.
At Gonzales Dental, we offer gentle deep teeth cleaning in Gonzales for patients who may require more extensive treatment beyond the standard teeth cleaning. Also known as “scaling and root planing,” our deep teeth cleaning treatments are designed to target plaque and tartar buildup and help stop the progression of periodontal (gum) disease.
Continue reading to learn more about deep teeth cleaning treatments, or contact us today at (830) 971-0268 to schedule an appointment.
What Is Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Deep teeth cleaning, sometimes referred to as scaling and root planing (SRP), is a form of dental cleaning that focuses on removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gum line.
Deep teeth cleaning involves two separate processes:
- Scaling: During the scaling phase of a deep teeth cleaning, plaque located above and below the gum line is manually scraped away with the help of a handheld device known as a scaler. Sometimes, an ultrasonic tool containing a vibrating metal tip is also used to remove stubborn plaque and tartar, which is then rinsed away with a water sprayer.
- Root Planing: Root planing is a process of smoothing rough areas located on the roots of the teeth via a back-and-forth rubbing motion. The purpose of this is to make it more difficult for bacteria to cling to these areas, which can help reduce the formation of plaque and/or tartar, as well as stop the progression of gum disease.
Sometimes, your dentist or periodontist will also use an antibiotic, such as ARESTIN, to target bacteria in hard-to-reach areas. Most often, antibiotics will be applied locally, directly at the site. However, it may be necessary to prescribe an oral antibiotic or an antibiotic mouth rinse in some cases.
Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Hurt?
Deep teeth cleaning can be uncomfortable. At Gonzales Dental, we prioritize our patients’ comfort, which is why we utilize local anesthetics to help numb your gums before your deep teeth cleaning and prevent pain during the treatment.
Following the procedure, you may experience some gum tenderness as the anesthetic wears off. It is also not uncommon to experience some light bleeding when brushing your teeth and/or flossing in the first few days after a deep teeth cleaning, as well as sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages. We can recommend over-the-counter pain medications and/or mouth rinses designed to decrease discomfort following a deep teeth cleaning.
What Are the Benefits of Deep Teeth Cleaning?
Successful deep teeth cleanings can have many significant benefits. Specifically, scaling and root planing can both prevent and work to stop the progression of periodontal disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. This can not only improve your oral health but also your body’s overall wellbeing.
Some of the main benefits of deep teeth cleanings include that it can help:
- Prevent periodontal (gum) disease
- Halt the progression of gum disease
- Protect against receding gums and tooth loss
- Stop bacteria accumulation
- Reduce chronic inflammation of the gums
- Eliminate stains and discoloration on the surface of the teeth
- Help reduce bad breath (halitosis)
Our dental professionals at Gonzales Dental can review all of your options and provide the information you need to make empowered decisions about your health. Our goal is to make sure you have everything you need to achieve your best, healthiest smile.
Signs You Need Deep Teeth Cleaning
There is no universal sign that someone needs scaling and root planing treatment. Instead, the first step in determining whether you may need deep teeth cleaning is scheduling a routine dental exam and check-up with your dentist. During this initial examination, your dentist or periodontist can examine your teeth and gums and provide a recommendation based on his or her findings.
Most often, deep teeth cleanings are recommended for patients with stage one gum disease (gingivitis), as well as more advanced periodontal diseases. In such cases, scaling and root planing can be an effective method to prevent further damage and reduce the risk of serious tooth decay, damage, and loss.
Some possible warning signs that may indicate someone needs deep teeth cleaning include:
- Swollen, tender, and/or red gums
- Gums that bleed very easily
- Receding gums
- Gums that have visibly pulled away from the teeth
- Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
- Loss of permanent teeth
- A consistent bad taste in the mouth
- Bad breath (halitosis) that does not go away
To determine whether you may be a candidate for deep teeth cleaning, we will conduct an examination using a probe to measure the depth of any pockets that have formed in your gums. In some cases, we may also take x-rays to determine if you have suffered any bone loss.
In every instance, our team is here to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in our recommendations. We offer affordable options, including flexible payment plans and financing, for those without traditional dental insurance. We also accept all forms of PPO insurance, as well as Texas Medicaid and CHIPS.
Learn more about our deep teeth cleanings in Gonzales; call (830) 971-0268 or contact us online.
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- Wassim Itani
"A great and warm dental place that feels like home. He is very experienced and welcoming and does his best to make it a pain-free experience. I would definitely do any dental work for me and the family at Gonzales Dental."
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